What is Air Freight Logistics & How Does it Work?

As with most questions, there is a short and a long answer to this regularly discussed topic. Essentially the definition of air freight would be the transportation of products and goods (cargo) which are shipped around the world via aircraft. Many people are under the mistaken impression that all of these transports are made using purpose-built commercial cargo aircraft but this is far from the reality.

A lot of cargo that is transported via air freight involves the use of passenger aircraft, in addition to commercial cargo aircraft. That is because many passenger aircraft flights have additional storage capacity which enables freight to be transported at a reduced rate when compared to hiring a specialist cargo plane. As you would expect the cargo is transported in the cargo hold of the passenger aircraft. For the purposes of our definition, the air freight transportation process begins at the airline terminal. Essentially as soon as your air freight company takes possession of the cargo, the air freight process has begun.

Depending on the type of cargo you are transporting your air freight company will prepare it for the transportation, ensuring it is adequately packed and then safely loaded into the airplane for the transportation journey.

Typically airlines offer a range of different services that are classified as air freight transportation. There are essentially four main categories

General Cargo

Typically the most cost-effective option as your goods are loading into the belly of the aircraft, as mentioned above typically in a passenger flight which is flying between those two destinations already.

Over The Counter Service

Ideally suited to smaller items, this type of service as the name suggests allows you to drop your freight at the airline terminal.

Hand Carry Service

This is the service people choose when they are looking to transport smaller packages of high value. Naturally, this is the most expensive option as it involves someone taking your package onto the plane and delivering it at the other end. This service is typically used for documents, high-value shipments and expensive goods.

Priority Service

Think of this as buying a first-class stamp at the post office. Essentially this is when you need a piece of freight transport as a matter of urgency. The cargo will generally be placed on the first available plane, but obviously, as you would expect you will need to pay a premium for this service.

When it comes to Air Freight Transportation, if you need to ship your goods then there is little doubt that this is far and away the fastest method. However, there is always the potential for delays due to customs issues for example, so it is always sensible to plan far in advance and speak to a knowledgeable and experienced shipping company such as Atlantic International who has the experience and can typically advise you on schedules and potential time frames. This ensures that where possible you do not disappoint your customers, or make promises that you cannot keep.

What Are The Most Common Items That Are Shipped By Air Freight

Although you could transport virtually anything using Air Freight, there are cost implications which need to be factored into the equation. Ocean freight for instance is typically significantly cheaper for larger shipments, but it obviously takes more time so everything is relative. The most popular types of freight shipped by air include:

• Pharmaceuticals
• Fresh produce with a short shelf life
• Seafood Plants and Flowers
• Time-sensitive Production Samples

Are There Any Restrictions In Regards To What Can Be Shipped By Air Freight?

Air Freight is a versatile and flexible option for moving stock or personal items around the globe. Generally speaking, anything can be shipped via air freight, with a few exceptions. Those exceptions include but are not limited to:

• Hazardous goods have restrictions placed on them. For example, flammable goods. These need the appropriate accompanying documentation
• Cellphones, magnets and batteries can have restrictions imposed upon them.
• Illegal items such as prohibited drugs
• Firearms

How Are The Costs of Air Freight Calculated?

The industry-standard method of charging is dependent upon the weight of the items you want to ship. The air freight is based on volumetric weight which is calculated on the weight vs the volume. Other costs that will affect the price you pay will include flat fees for handling, documentation, customs clearance and charges to pick up and deliver goods.

How Can Atlantic International Assist You With The Complications of Air Freight

The good news is that an established and reputable company such as Atlantic International can take away all of the hassles, frustrations and worries that shipping stock or other items worldwide can bring.

Because our staff deal with this world and the various airlines on a daily basis we have the contacts, the knowledge, the experience and the expertise to guide and assist you through the entire process. This is what hundreds of companies across the United Kingdom do and we are confident that we can be a reliable and professional partner for your business. From your initial enquiry all the way through to the delivery of your product, the team at Atlantic International are with you every step of the way.

In most cases, Air Freight might be the perfect option for all of your shipping needs, but we can discuss that with you and potentially even come up with alternative solutions that might save you money in the long run. In the unlikely event that any of your stock gets delayed, our team will step into the breach and liaise with the various customer's officials leaving you free to concentrate on growing and building your business.

For more information or for a free no obligation quotation, contact our friendly customer services team today on 01527 874 980